Enjoy (Don’t Destroy) Your Pool This Summer

West
Springfield Police District – As summer 2012 kicks off this Memorial Day
weekend, officers hope residents will enjoy their community pools safely
and responsibly. Along with the traditional slower pace and extra free
time in summer months, occasionally bored teens or other curious sorts
trespass onto private property pools and cause havoc.

In
2011, there were 26 destruction incidents and 18 theft/larceny incidents
at community pools in the West Springfield Police District. These
incidents cost homeowners’ associations thousands of dollars and often
result in extensive pool closures. So far in 2012, there have been two
destruction incidents and one larceny/theft. Officers have created an
informational poster that explains the serious consequences of pool
vandalism and are distributing them throughout the West Springfield
District.

Crime
prevention officers stress that inadequate or non-functioning lighting
are two of the major security deficiencies found at many neighborhood
pools. Residents are encouraged to notify management when they see lights
that aren’t properly functioning or don’t cover most of the property and
to help prevent their pools from being targeted by summertime vandals.

Violators
for these infractions may be charged with a Class VI felony, resulting in
1-5 years imprisonment and fines of up to $2,500.

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To request this information in an alternate format, call the Public Information Office at 703.246.2253. TTY 703-204-2264